Westwood Gets Ryder Cup Nod

Lee Westwood flew home from Germany tonight and found out only on landing that he and close friend Darren Clarke had been selected for the Ryder Cup.

European captain Ian Woosnam revealed tonight he had told Clarke on Thursday he was picking him for a match on September 22-24 that comes only six weeks after the death of his wife Heather from cancer.

But Woosnam thought right up to the last minute whether to go for Westwood or one other player he refused to name.

Everybody assumes it to be Dane Thomas Bjorn, who said when contacted: "Devastated does not even come close." He is ranked higher in the world than Westwood and at 13th in the points table finished eight places ahead of him.

Woosnam stated: "I tried to ring Lee, but he had already taken off. It was most probably the hardest decision I've ever had to make.

"Lee has played some great golf over the last few months. A lot have, but he has come into good form and has a record of winning 11 games out of 20. He's also won twice at the K Club."

That is the course that will play host to Ireland's first staging of the match - and it is where Bjorn had a last-round 86 last year, including an 11 on the penultimate hole when joint leader.

"I spoke to quite a few people, but at the end of the day it was me who had to make the decision."

On Clarke's selection so soon after the loss of his wife Woosnam commented: "Darren has had his problems in the last couple of years, but he has a magnificent record and I don't think it's a risk.

"He is absolutely raring to go. Believe me, Darren is up for it. I think Heather would have loved him to play and I think that's why he put his name forward. I think he won't be thinking about anything at the Ryder Cup other than winning.

"We will be one big family and I am sure he will cope fine. He's a great competitor. I have had to go with a feeling and my heart.

"This is the first time we have been put as favourites, but you've got to look back at how these matches have gone down to the wire. I expect it to again."

Clarke said: "I was both honoured and delighted. I would not have considered making myself available unless I felt I could contribute to the cause.
"It's going to be fantastic to play in Ireland and it will be a great occasion for everybody. I would not have wanted to miss it - and neither would my lovely wife Heather."

He has started practising again and even today (Sunday) was out making a successful defence of his club title at Queenwood in Surrey. Clarke has entered for the Madrid Masters the week before the match.

Woosnam also made no attempt to hide a disagreement with 2004 captain Bernhard Langer.

American captain Lehman has consulted Langer for tips whereas Woosnam has not and the Welshman said: "It seems strange to me that he gave some advice."

On not talking to Langer he added: "I've spoken to two other captains. I feel I am in control of what I am doing."